Later, Teacher Prin dozed for a while. When he woke, he saw Mai Rada kneeling on the floor, his hands crossed over his chest and his lips moving as if he were murmuring something.
It was probably some kind of prayer... As a Theology Department instructor, Teacher Prin could easily tell that the other man had faith in something.
He did not disturb him. Only after Mai Rada had finished the ritual and opened his eyes did he calmly say, "You look much better mentally."
Mai Rada silently glanced at Teacher Prin, then suddenly said, "I need to stay in this town for a while."
Teacher Prin thought about it and said, "Why do you think I would help you?"
Mai Rada said expressionlessly, "I don't like owing people anything... Besides, aren't you incapable of standing by and doing nothing?"
Teacher Prin smiled faintly and said nothing more.
They soon left. After eating a little, Teacher Prin helped Mai Rada change into a simple set of clothes and put on a wig, then took him to a church.
Teacher Prin told Mai Rada that the Priest there was on good terms with him and that Mai Rada could stay there temporarily. However, he could not eat and live there for free; he would have to do odd jobs.
After thinking it over, Mai Rada agreed... Perhaps compared to unconditionally accepting help, he could better tolerate something that came at a price.
"Don't worry. I won't do anything to the Priest." When Mai Rada said those words, which were practically a guarantee, they sounded especially stiff... He probably was not used to expressing himself this way.
Teacher Prin merely nodded and told him that if he needed anything, he could go find him at last night's house. He would be happy